Quebec on pace to record back-to-back years with 600 drug overdose deaths
CBC
Quebec is projected to surpass 600 drug overdose deaths for a second consecutive year and experts are repeating calls for the province to do more to curb this trend.
The province’s institute for public health, known as the INSPQ, recorded 645 confirmed or suspected drug overdose deaths in 2024 — the highest total ever recorded in Quebec.
So far in 2025, the INSPQ has reported 453 deaths between January and September. That projects to about 604 deaths for the year.
Those who work directly with people struggling with drug addiction say demand for help is expanding.
Resources, however, aren't.
Anthony Berger is a clinical supervisor at Dunham House in Quebec’s Eastern Townships.
He says applications for the English-language residential treatment facility for substance use and mental health increased by about 16 per cent in both 2024 and 2025.
But Berger notes they only have a 38-bed facility.
“We cannot accommodate everybody with the sheer number, right? So where do these people go?” said Berger.
He says the Quebec government needs to make significant contributions and investments in treatment centers where they’ve experienced cuts.
“Treatment centres like ours require even more funding to attract professionals,” said Berger.
“Some people will continue to not be treated ... will continue to treat their mental health struggles through substance use which continues that vicious cycle.”
He says people talk about the need for the continuum of care — including social housing and drug supply safety but he says it’s really about the “prevention piece.”
“This is not new in Quebec,” he said. “The numbers don't lie.”
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